Learn all about the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge formula! Find out what it is, how to use it, and see some projects you can make.
It’s always hard to pick my favorite Mod Podge formulas, and it definitely depends on the day. However, I will say that Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is definitely always a front runner, and for good reason. What other decoupage formula can you WASH?!
There isn’t one.
Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is the decoupage formula that you can apply to glass, ceramic, and metal – and then you’ll be able to wash the item. And when I say “put in the dishwasher,” I mean on the top rack after it cures.
This formula is indoor/outdoor durable (though I typically use Outdoor Mod Podge for outdoor projects).
Does it really work? Absolutely!
I’ve tested many projects with this formula, and if you follow the instructions EXACTLY, your item can be washed in the dishwasher.
If you are wondering about instructions, here you go. These are the steps you should follow for success:
- Clean your project surface. I wash glass, ceramic, and metal with warm soapy water – rinse thoroughly, and let dry. If your piece is too large, using rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball to clean.
- Roll your bottle on the table to mix it.
- Open and use a soft bristle brush to apply the finish to the surface and the back of the design element.
- While the Mod Podge is still wet, place the design onto the surface and smooth.
- Do not apply the design element where it can be in contact with food or your lips. For example, apply to the back of a glass plate or 1/4″ down from the edge of a cup.
- Let dry for 1- 2 hours and then apply 2 – 3 more coats. Let dry 1 – 2 hours between coats.
- Cure your project for 28 days.
- Wash by hand or in the top rack of the dishwasher.
Now that you’ve gotten the skinny on how to use it, here are some common questions I get about the formula. I’ve provided the answers to the best of my ability!
Questions About Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge
1. Isn’t all Mod Podge dishwasher safe? Why do I need a special formula?
This is a common misconception. All Mod Podges are not dishwasher safe. The Outdoor formula is highly water-resistant but not waterproof. If you want to be able to wash a decoupaged item in the dishwasher, you need this formula!
2. What is the finish of this formula?
It is Glossy – so shiny. You can see what a Mod Podge glossy finish looks like here.
3. What sizes does the formula come in?
It comes in 8 ounce and 16 ounce. You can find out where to buy this formula (amongst others) here.
4. What is the cure time – when can I wash my project?
You need to wait 28 days. Not 10 or 17 or 26 – 28! Please wait the full time frame for the best results.
5. Do I really have to wait 28 days for it to cure?
Yes.
6. I waited the cure time and my project messed up!
You may not have put on enough layers of Mod Podge, or they may not have been thick enough. Or if you didn’t clean your surface before beginning, regular oils from hands and other things can cause the formula not to adhere appropriately.
7. Why can’t the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge touch my food or lips?
While it is waterbase and non-toxic (so it won’t hurt you), it’s not FDA approved food-safe. it would be very unusual for a glue to be approved for use with food! So please keep it away from anything edible.
8. How do I prepare my surface to apply this formula?
Clean with warm soapy water if the item is small – or use rubbing alcohol and cotton balls, especially if the item is larger.
9. Can I still use the formula on wood?
Yes you can. Having said that, you aren’t going to want to wash a piece of wood in the dishwasher. If this is the only formula you have, you can still use it like regular Mod Podge.
10. Where can I purchase it?
This formula is available on Amazon.com, Michaels, or online at Jo-ann.com.
Are you ready for some project ideas using Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge? Check out the links below!
Ready to try Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge? Here are some awesome projects you can start with!
Washable Fabric Platter
Grab some fat quarters and go to work on some plain white dishes with Mod Podge. Perfect for housewarming or wedding gifts!
Nautical Drink Coasters
Use Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge to decoupage these unique drink coasters for summer! Get free nautical papers in a variety of patterns for your project.
Confetti Party Coasters
There are a million ways you can transform plain coasters with Mod Podge – and tissue paper confetti is one of them! These are made from hardware store tiles. Get the tutorial here.
Tissue Paper Watercolor Mugs
Using tissue paper on mugs creates a unique watercolor effect - learn how to do it with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge here.
Make a Dishwasher Safe Glitter Mug
You can make this DIY glitter mug with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge – then you can safely wash it without any glitter coming off!
Teacher Appreciation Apple Mug
This is such a cute idea for a teacher gift! Apply a glittery red apple to a ceramic mug with Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge.
Color Block Drinking Glasses
You can apply cardstock to glasses and make them safe for the dishwasher! Learn how to do it with your favorite designs here.
DIY Glitter Glasses
Make beautiful glitter glasses with Mod Podge to celebrate New Year's Eve – or any other celebration. The best part is you can wash these!
Striped DIY Travel Mug
This DIY travel mug was assembled with a dollar store item, paper scraps, and Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge. It's so easy and inexpensive to make!
Decorate Dollar Store Plates
Use various colors of tissue paper and Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge to decorate dollar store plates. This DIY is perfect for parties!
Easy Wooden Spoon Makeover
Use Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge for this unique wooden spoon makeover – these are so colorful and make great gifts!
Fabric Flowers and Polkadots Mug
This Fabric Flowers and Polkadots Mug is sooo cute and easy to do – you can probably finish one up in a half hour.
DIY Abstract Fruit Bowl
Enhance a white bowl with tissue paper and Mod Podge! These are fun for parties or housewarming gifts.
Let me know your favorite projects or any questions you might have in the comments!
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Judy H. says
Even though though dishwasher-safe Mod Podge is available, I have never elected to use it. Way back, when the only kind of Mod Podge we could buy was the glossy kind, it was the gloss that was the one thing that made me slow to embrace the stuff. I like a glossy finish for some things, but just a few.
I have several things I’ve made and the materials I’ve used claim to be dishwasher safe, but I never put them in the dishwasher. I have certain things I’ve purchased that say “dishwasher-safe” on the bottom, (like a vase for instance). I never put them in the dishwasher. I do not mind in the least making up a sink full of soapy water and handwashing a few things. When I see the normal wear and tear a dishwasher tolls on my dishes and glasses, I’m not willing to risk placing anything I’ve put time, money and creativity toward to save myself a few minutes at the sink.
Amy says
Hi Judy! Thank you for your perspective! I definitely think you have to do what works for you 😀
wendy hahn says
I think this would be great to use on those free advertising mugs. The decopouge could cover the ads. There are also tons of these at thrift stores.
RissieRai says
#1 can I use this fabric mod podge to seal the top surface of my patches, in order to keep patches from wear and tear?
#2 will the fabric mod podge adhere patches to leather??
#3 is the dimensional Mod Podge water prof.?
#4 can you apply fabric mod podge over the top of dimensional mod podge?
Thank you for your time,
Rissielerai@gmail.com
Amanda Hughes says
i have a question actually. I am new to this and do NOT have the hard surface or dishwasher safe yet. I was wondering if i could use regular modpodge for my first 2 coats then get the better one and finish with it on top?? much like others do with epoxy…
Daron Taylor says
I’m wrapping yarn around tumblers and sealing with dishwasher safe mod podge. After 4 coats I’m still feeling the yarn texture. If I keep applying it will it ever fill in the cracks and be smooth?? I’d really like to avoid using epoxy.
Louise Hoeglund says
Can you add mica powder or a drop or two of alcohol ink to color
the Dishwasher Mod Podge or any of the othe Mod Podge products?
Amy says
Hi Louise! You definitely can. I talk about how to tint Mod Podge here: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/colored-mason-jars/
You can use the mica or alcohol ink in place of food coloring. Have fun!
KARI HAGSTROM says
I AM USING THE DISHWASHER SAFE MOD PODGE FOR FABRIC ON PLATES. I KNOW THEY ARE DISHWASHER SAFE ON TOP RACK – BUT ARE THEY MICROWAVE SAFE?
Amy says
Kari, they are not microwave safe. Thank you for asking!
Emily says
Hi! Im using if this is being used and it is dishwasher safe, it is also safe for handwashing? I just wanted to double check, I wasn’t sure if the wear and tear of using a dish sponge on it may effect this top coat differently than a dishwasher. Thanks! Very helpful info in here!
Amy says
Hi Emily! Yes, it can withstand. A little known secret for people who scrub . . . you can reapply every now and again and just let it cure again!
Emily says
Thank you so much! Any tips on how to get a nice smooth coating? I’ve found on my second coat it started to crackle a little and pick up the layer underneath, but i waited an hour and a half between coats?